Treatment of stage IE primary lymphoma of bone

Pediatric primary lymphoma of bone in epiphysis case report

Primary lymphoma of the bone (PLB) is a rare entity, with a majority of pediatric cases presenting in the metaphysis of long bones. There have been only seven reported cases to date of pediatric lymphoma of the bone arising from the epiphysis, of which only two have been described in the proximal tibia. We report a pediatric case of PLB in the tibial epiphysis which presented initially with knee pain. Imaging was performed with X-ray, MRI, CT, and PET-CT with bone biopsies revealing diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. This patient also showed a second, synchronous lesion in the left iliac bone, which was also biopsy proven to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Lymphoma in the epiphysis for children is rare and often confused with infectious etiologies or other types of tumors. Misdiagnosis may result in inappropriate treatment and possible progression of the disease, thus making early identification important to initiate therapy.

Primary Bone Lymphoma: A Review of the Literature with Emphasis on Histopathology and Histogenesis

Primary bone lymphoma (PBL) is a rare neoplasm of malignant lymphoid cells presenting with one or more bone lesions without nodal or other extranodal involvement. It accounts for approximately 1% of all lymphomas and 7% of malignant primary bone tumors. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), not otherwise specified (NOS) represents the predominant histological type and constitutes over 80% of all cases. PBL may occur at all ages with a typical diagnosis age of 45–60 years and a slight male predominance. Local bone pain, soft tissue edema, palpable mass and pathological fracture are the most common clinical features. Diagnosis of the disease, which is frequently delayed due to its non-specific clinical presentation, is based on the combination of clinical examination and imaging studies and confirmed by combined histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. PBL can develop in any part of the skeleton, although it occurs most commonly in the femur, humerus, tibia, spine and pelvis. The imaging appearance of PBL is highly variable and unspecific. In terms of the cell-of-origin, most cases of primary bone DLBCL (PB-DLBCL), NOS belong to the germinal center B-cell-like subtype and specifically originate from germinal center centrocytes. PB-DLBCL, NOS has been considered a distinct clinical entity based on its particular prognosis, histogenesis, gene expression and mutational profile and miRNA signature. PBL carries a favorable prognosis, especially when treated with combined chemoradiotherapy.

A rare presentation of primary lymphoma of bone with aneurysmal bone cyst-like changes

Primary lymphoma of bone occurs rarely in children with variable imaging findings ranging from a lytic lesion to an aggressive permeative lesion. We detail a case report with review of literature of a 14-year-old boy with a rare presentation of primary lymphoma of bone with aneurysmal bone cyst-like changes. The lesion was surgically excised as management for aneurysmal bone cyst but histopathological examination of the excised tissue revealed a non-Hodgkin's type of lymphoma. This unique type of aneurysmal bone cyst-like presentation has not been well characterised until now in the imaging spectrum of primary lymphoma of bone. Clinicians need to be aware of this uncommon presentation for early intervention and appropriate management of this malignancy in children.

Primary Bone Lymphoma: A 13 Year Retrospective Institutional Analysis in the Chemo-Immunotherapy Era

Primary Lymphoma of bone (PBL) is an uncommon extranodal tumor accounting for 1% of all malignant lymphomas. The incidence of PBL is so rare that many of its aspects remain unknown. We retrospectively analysed our data in order to know clinical characteristics and treatment outcome in Indian population in chemo-immunotherapy era. We identified 49 patients [2007-2019] (median age 52 years) of which, 35 (71.4%) were males. Nearly one-third patients (n = 18; 36.8%) were elderly (Age > 60). The most common histological subtype was DLBCL. Local pain /swelling (n = 23; 47%) and B symptoms (n = 20; 44.4%) was the most common presentation. Spine was the most frequently involved site (n = 25; 51%) followed by pelvis (n = 17; 34.7%). One third patients had poor ECOG-PS ≥ 2, (n = 16; 32.6). More than 50% of the population presented with IPI score ≥ 2 (n = 25; 55.5%). Majority of the patients presented with Ann-Arbor stage IV disease (n = 31; 63.2%). (n = 32; 71.1%) cases received chemotherapy alone and (n = 13; 28.9%) patients were treated in combination with local radiotherapy. R-CHOP was the most common treatment regimen given to patients (n = 43; 95.5%). Overall, three-fourth patients (n = 36; 80%) achieved a complete response. At a median follow-up of 45 ± 2 (range 3-144) months, 4-year OS (Overall Survival) and PFS (Progression free survival) was 83.1% and 74.5%, respectively, using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Prognostic factors for OS on multivariate analysis were ECOG-PS 0-1 [p = 0.05], age < 60 [p = 0.03] and achievement of CR [p = 0.001]. PBL in India is usually of DLBCL subtype, with spine as the most common site. It has an excellent prognosis in the R-CHOP era. Chemo-immunotherapy with 6 R-CHOP followed by addition of Radiotherapy if partial response appears to provide good outcomes. However, the exact role of radiation still needs to be confirmed.

Primary Bone Lymphoma: A Case Series and Review of Literature

Primary bone lymphoma (PBL) is a subtype of lymphoma that exclusively affects skeletal tissue. Despite the relatively common involvement of skeletal structures as a manifestation of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), primary and exclusive involvement of the skeletal system is rare. The prevalence of PBL is estimated to be 3–7% amongst primary bone tumors and less than 2% amongst all lymphomas in adults. However, the definition of primary bone lymphoma has been inconsistent over time. Within our institution, we identified four cases of primary bone lymphoma based on diagnostic criteria formed from the general consensus of multiple organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG). Here, we discuss the distinct characteristics amongst these cases in addition to performing a systematic review of current literature regarding this lymphoproliferative entity.

Is Radiation Necessary for Treatment of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma of Bone? Clinical Results With Contemporary Therapy

BACKGROUND

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) of bone is a rare musculoskeletal malignancy accounting for fewer than 7% of bone cancers. Traditionally, we have treated patients who have NHL of bone with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, but the role of radiotherapy in disease management and patient functional outcomes after treatment have not been well studied. We investigated the survival advantage of radiotherapy in a large cohort of patients with NHL of bone and assessed associated patient complications of radiotherapy.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The objective of this study was to compare patients treated for NHL of bone with and without radiation in terms of (1) overall survival; (2) pretreatment complications; (3) posttreatment complications; and (4) functional outcomes using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all patients with biopsy-proven NHL of bone diagnosed at our institution between 1985 and 2013 was undertaken; 70 patients met our criteria for inclusion with minimum followup of 6 months (median, 55 months; range, 10-219 months). Overall survival at 5 and 10 years was estimated and compared between two groups of patients: one group treated with systemic therapy alone (chemotherapy, rituximab; 46 patients [66%]) and the other with combined modality therapy (systemic therapy and radiotherapy; 24 patients [34%]). During the period in question, indications for radiotherapy included bulky disease, an abbreviated course of systemic therapy, and an incomplete response to systemic therapy. Patients not meeting these criteria generally received systemic therapy alone. With the available sample size, it was estimated that a difference in survival of approximately 30% would have to be present for detection with 80% power (α = 0.05, β = 0.2, n = 70, Δ = 30%). Pretreatment and posttreatment complications occurring in both patient groups were retrospectively reviewed with special emphasis on fracture healing after treatment. MSTS scores were obtained for 45 patients with appendicular tumors at a median followup of 42 months (range, 10-215 months).

RESULTS

With the data available, no difference in Kaplan-Meier survivorship was observed between patients treated with and without radiation at 5 years (98%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 93%-100% versus 95%; 95% CI, 85%-100%; p = 0.281). Patients who were treated with radiation were more likely to experience problems with fracture healing (relative risk [RR], 12.8; 95% CI, 1.8-89.8; p = 0.01). Similarly, patients treated with radiation were at a higher risk for fracture in the posttreatment period (five of 24 versus no radiation zero of 46; RR, 20.7; 95% CI, 1.2-359.0; p = 0.0375). MSTS scores were poorer in patients treated with radiation (75% versus 91%; p = 0.034) attributable in part to a higher incidence of bony complications in this group after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the numbers of patients in our study, we could not demonstrate a survival advantage with radiation use. Rather, radiotherapy may be associated with orthopaedic complications occurring during and after treatment. Larger, prospective studies are necessary to definitively establish whether radiation is necessary for the treatment of patients with lymphoma of bone.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Primary and secondary bone lymphomas

Recent studies have contributed to the enhancement of clinical and molecular knowledge on bone lymphomas, a group of rare malignancies with particular characteristics. Nevertheless, several questions remain unanswered and the level of evidence supporting some diagnostic and therapeutic decisions remains low. Currently, three different forms of bone lymphomas can be distinguished: the primary bone lymphoma, consisting of a single bone lesion with or without regional lymphadenopathies; the polyostotic lymphoma, consisting of multifocal disease exclusively involving the skeleton; and the disseminated lymphoma with secondary infiltration of the skeleton. The first two forms exhibit a good prognosis, requiring treatments similar to those commonly used for nodal lymphomas of the same category, but several issues regarding the role of surgery and local control of the disease, the sequence of treatment, radiation volumes and doses, management of pathological fractures and prevention of late sequelae deserve particular attention. Due to its rarity, prospective trials exclusively focused on bone lymphomas appear unrealistic, thus, critical revision of our own experience and analyses of large cumulative series as well as molecular studies on archival cases remain valid alternatives to improve our knowledge on this obscure lymphoproliferative malignancy. The present review is based on the analysis of the largest available database of bone lymphomas established under the sponsorship of the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG) as well as on the critical revision of related literature. We provide recommendations for diagnosis, staging, treatment, and response assessment of these patients in everyday practice as well as for the management of special conditions like pathological fractures, indolent forms and central nervous system prophylaxis.

Results of a Prospective Study of High-Dose or Conventional Anthracycline-Cyclophosphamide Regimen Plus Radiotherapy for Localized Adult Non-Hodgkin's Primary Bone Lymphoma

Background. Primary bone lymphoma (PBL) is a rare entity that has only been reviewed in one prospective and small retrospective studies, from which it is difficult to establish treatment guidelines. We prospectively evaluated high-dose or conventional anthracycline-cyclophosphamide dose and radiotherapy for PBL. Patients and Methods. The GOELAMS prospective multicenter study (1986-1998) enrolled adults with localized high-grade PBL according to age and performance status (PS). Patients <60 years received a high-dose CHOP regimen (VCAP) and those ≥60 years a conventional anthracycline-cyclophosphamide regimen (VCEP-bleomycin); all received intrathecal chemotherapy and local radiotherapy. Results. Among the 26 patients included (VCAP: 19; VCEP-bleomycin: 7), 39% had poor PS ≥2. With a median follow-up of 8 years, overall survival, event-free survival, and relapse-free survival were 64%, 62%, and 65%, respectively, with no significant difference between treatment groups. Poor PS was significantly associated with shorter OS and EFS. Conclusions. Our results confirm the efficacy of our age-based therapeutic strategy. High-doses anthracycline-cyclophosphamide did not improve the outcome. VCEP-bleomycin is effective and well tolerated for old patients. The intensification must be considered for patients with PS ≥2, a poor prognostic factor.

Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of bone: poly-ostotic versus mono-ostotic subtypes

Primary non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma of bone (PNHLB) accounts for less than 5% of all primary bone tumours and less than 1% of all non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Due to its rarity, only a few retrospective studies have been published describing the prognosis and its treatment. We report our experience of 20 cases of PNHLB with their clinicopathologic correlation that were treated at our centre over a period of ten years. There were 16 cases of the mono-ostotic subtype and four cases of poly-ostotic subtype. All of these had a histological diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The age of presentation was fifth to sixth decade. The mono-ostotic subtype commonly presented with the involvement of femur or humerus, while the poly-ostotic subtype commonly had paraparesis due to vertebral involvement. Cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone (CHOP)-based chemotherapy was given to all patients, but definitive radiotherapy was used only in the mono-ostotic subtype. At median follow-up of 38 months (range 5–96 months), event-free survival was 81% and 25% with mono-ostotic and poly-ostotic subtypes, respectively. Thus poly-ostotic PNHLB is a distinctive entity with a poor prognosis, and larger studies are needed for better management of this subtype.

Case report and review of primary bone diffuse large B-cell lymphoma involving the calcaneus

Primary bone lymphoma from diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is a very rare condition, especially in the foot. In the present case report, a 23-year-old female patient presented with long-term pain along the lateral aspect of her right calcaneus. Ancillary magnetic resonance imaging revealed a radiolucent bone tumor in the calcaneus. Computed tomography-guided biopsy of the bone was completed and revealed chronic inflammation with hematopoietic elements. The patient continued to have pain and limitation in her daily activities after the biopsy. The patient underwent surgical excision and curettage by the senior author. Pathologic examination revealed that the lesion was consistent with diffuse, large, B-cell lymphoma, stage IAE. The lesion appeared to have been completely excised at surgery, and the patient underwent 3 cycles of chemotherapy and 15 radiotherapy sessions to the calcaneus. At the last follow-up visit, the patient had been disease free for 5 years. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of primary bone, diffuse, large B-cell lymphoma of the calcaneus to be treated with a combination of surgical excision, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of primary bone lymphoma in Korea

Background

This study evaluates the effectiveness of immunochemotherapy and radiation therapy in the treatment of patients with primary bone lymphoma (PBL).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 33 patients with PBL who were treated at 6 medical centers in Korea from 1992 to 2010. Clinicopathological features and treatment outcomes were analyzed.

Results

The median age of the patients participating in our study was 40 years. The most common sites of involvement were the pelvis (12.36%) and femur (11.33%). CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone) or CHOP-like regimens were administered to 20 patients (61%), and R-CHOP (rituximab plus CHOP) was administered to the remaining 13 patients (39%). The overall response rate was 89% (complete response, 76%; partial response, 12%). The overall survival (OS) of patients with solitary bone lesions was longer than that of patients with multiple bone lesions (median OS: not reached vs. 166 months, respectively; P=0.089). Addition of rituximab to CHOP did not significantly affect either OS or progression-free survival (P=0.53 and P=0.23, respectively). Combining radiation therapy with chemotherapy also did not improve the OS or progression-free survival of patients with solitary bone lesions.

Conclusion

Conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy remains an effective treatment option for patients with PBL. Additional benefits of supplementing chemotherapy with either rituximab or radiation therapy were not observed in this study. Further investigation is needed to characterize the role of immunochemotherapy in treating patients with PBL.

Small Round Cell Tumors of Bone

Diagnosing small round cell tumors (SCRTs) can be a difficult task for pathologists due to overlapping clinicopathologic features. This review highlights the clinical, radiographic, histologic, immunohistochemical, and genetic features of the most common SRCTs involving bone with an emphasis on differential diagnosis. SRCTs are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms characterized by poorly differentiated cells with small, blue, round nuclei and scant cytoplasm. They can occur as primary tumors in bone or soft tissue.

Early-stage primary bone lymphoma: a retrospective, multicenter Rare Cancer Network (RCN) Study

PURPOSE

Primary bone lymphoma (PBL) represents less than 1% of all malignant lymphomas. In this study, we assessed the disease profile, outcome, and prognostic factors in patients with Stages I and II PBL.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirteen Rare Cancer Network (RCN) institutions enrolled 116 consecutive patients with PBL treated between 1987 and 2008 in this study. Eighty-seven patients underwent chemoradiotherapy (CXRT) without (78) or with (9) surgery, 15 radiotherapy (RT) without (13) or with (2) surgery, and 14 chemotherapy (CXT) without (9) or with (5) surgery. Median RT dose was 40 Gy (range, 4-60). The median number of CXT cycles was six (range, 2-8). Median follow-up was 41 months (range, 6-242).

RESULTS

The overall response rate at the end of treatment was 91% (complete response [CR] 74%, partial response [PR] 17%). Local recurrence or progression was observed in 12 (10%) patients and systemic recurrence in 17 (15%). The 5-year overall survival (OS), lymphoma-specific survival (LSS), and local control (LC) were 76%, 78%, and 92%, respectively. In univariate analyses (log-rank test), favorable prognostic factors for OS and LSS were International Prognostic Index (IPI) score ≤1 (p = 0.009), high-grade histology (p = 0.04), CXRT (p = 0.05), CXT (p = 0.0004), CR (p < 0.0001), and RT dose >40 Gy (p = 0.005). For LC, only CR and Stage I were favorable factors. In multivariate analysis, IPI score, RT dose, CR, and CXT were independently influencing the outcome (OS and LSS). CR was the only predicting factor for LC.

CONCLUSION

This large multicenter retrospective study confirms the good prognosis of early-stage PBL treated with combined CXRT. An adequate dose of RT and complete CXT regime were associated with better outcome.

Recurrent PET FDG Uptake after Sequential Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy for DLBCL of the Tibia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

The aim of this paper is to report on the challenges associated with identifying disease recurrence following combined modality therapy (CMT) for primary lymphoma of the tibia in which an intramedullary nail has been placed. A patient with primary bone lymphoma (PBL) was treated with CMT (chemotherapy and radiation therapy). After a complete response, he has been followed for eighteen months by physical exam and radiographic imaging. Despite persistent increased tracer accumulation at the original site, he has no proven recurrence. Literature review showed a small number of retrospective, single institution reviews detailing clinical experience and expected outcome in patients treated with PBL limited to one bony site of disease. PBL presents a treatment challenge, particularly when a weight-bearing long bone is diffusely involved and followup is complicated after placement of stabilizing hardware. Close coordination of the oncology team and diagnostic radiology is required to ensure optimal outcome.

Primary bone lymphoma--the University of Miami experience

Primary bone lymphoma (PBL) is a rare disease. There has been paucity of studies addressing its therapy and prognosis. We retrospectively examined PBL cases seen at the University of Miami from June 2000 to August 2007 to describe our single institution experience and review the literature. Fifty-three patients were identified with a median age of 52 (18-87) and a median follow-up of 40 months (0-106). The most common histologic type was diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (83%). Forty-one patients (77%) presented with localized disease and 48 were treated at our institution. Forty-six patients underwent chemotherapy (40 patients) and/or radiation (36 patients). Forty-four patients achieved a complete response and all patients were alive at last follow-up. The progression-free survival (PFS) was 83% at 4 years. No difference in PFS was observed between patients treated with chemotherapy or combined chemotherapy plus radiation. There was a trend toward improvement in PFS (p = 0.062) of patients with DLBCL treated with rituximab plus chemotherapy. Our single institutional experience demonstrates that the outcome of patients with PBL is excellent. Although the current data support the use of combined modality treatment for localized PBL, randomized controlled trials are needed especially now, when rituximab is routinely added to chemotherapy regimens.

Imaging of lymphoma of the musculoskeletal system

Imaging plays a crucial role in staging and the assessment of treatment response in patients who have lymphoma of the musculoskeletal system. This article reviews imaging features of lymphoma of bone, muscles, cutaneous, and subcutaneous tissue. At radiography, lymphoma of the bone is most commonly lytic, but the affected bone also can appear deceivingly normal, even when a large tumor is present. At CT, lymphoma of muscle can be homogenous in attenuation, and it may not show contrast enhancement, making tumor detection more difficult. Post-treatment changes often are encountered at MR imaging and positron emission tomography, and when considered in light of the patient's therapy regimen (eg, radiation therapy and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor), they usually can be differentiated from tumor. Post-treatment changes include diffuse FDG uptake in marrow after chemotherapy, indicating rebound of normal marrow, and MR imaging signal abnormalities that may persist for anywhere from a few months to years after treatment.

Imaging of lymphoma of the musculoskeletal system

Imaging plays a crucial role in staging and the assessment of treatment response in patients who have lymphoma of the musculoskeletal system. This article reviews imaging features of lymphoma of bone, muscles, cutaneous, and subcutaneous tissue. At radiography, lymphoma of the bone is most commonly lytic, but the affected bone also can appear deceptively normal, even when a large tumor is present. At CT, lymphoma of muscle can be homogenous in attenuation, and it may not show contrast enhancement, making tumor detection more difficult. Post-treatment changes often are encountered at MR imaging and positron emission tomography, and when considered in light of the patient's therapy regimen (eg, radiation therapy and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor), they usually can be differentiated from tumor. Post-treatment changes include diffuse FDG uptake in marrow after chemotherapy, indicating rebound of normal marrow, and MR imaging signal abnormalities that may persist for anywhere from a few months to years after treatment.

Newly developed multiple myeloma in a patient with primary T-cell lymphoma of bone

Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of bone (PLB) is rare, and generally presents as a single extensive and destructive bone lesion. Histopathologically, most cases present as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and T-cell lymphoma is rare. By contrast, multiple myeloma is a disease defined as the neoplastic proliferation of a single clone of plasma cells producing a monoclonal immunoglobulin. We report a case of multiple myeloma that developed during treatment of PLB in a type of T-cell. A 48-yr-old man was diagnosed as T-cell PLB, stage IE, 18 months ago. The patient received the chemoradiotherapy and salvage chemotherapy for PLB. However, the lymphoma progressed with generalized bone pain, and laboratory findings showed bicytopenia and acute renal failure. On bone marrow biopsy, the patient was diagnosed as having multiple myeloma newly developed with primary T-cell lymphoma of bone. In spite of chemotherapy, the patient died of renal failure.

Primary Bone Lymphoma — Treatment and Outcome

AIMS

A retrospective review of patients with histologically confirmed primary bone lymphoma (PBL) diagnosed and treated at a single tertiary referral centre between 1985 and 2003.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical records of all patients treated for histologically primary bone lymphoma were identified using the hospital data base. Data was obtained on patient demographics, stage, treatment and outcome.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients with PBL were identified. Seventeen had localised disease and five had multifocal bone involvement. The median age was 50 years. Of the patients who could be graded according to the International Prognostic Index (IPI), 12 cases were classified as low risk, seven as intermediate risk and one as high risk. All patients received chemotherapy; 19 with an anthracycline-containing regimen. Eighteen patients were treated with radiotherapy to a median total dose of 40 Gy (range 30-50 Gy). Three patients had surgery instead of radiotherapy as local treatment (one fibulectomy and two endoprosthetic replacements). The median follow-up was 84.5 months (range 3-206 months). The overall 10-year survival was 74%; 92% for low-risk IPI vs 73% for intermediate-risk IPI (P = 0.27). The 10-year relapse-free survival was 85% overall and 83% for both low- and intermediate-risk IPI (P = 0.87). Local relapse was seen in one patient. Orthopaedic complications occurred in two patients--one developed a pathological fracture after biopsy before radiotherapy and the other developed avascular necrosis outside the irradiated area.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined modality treatment for PBL results in good local control and survival rates with acceptable toxicity.

A clinicopathological retrospective study of 131 patients with primary bone lymphoma: a population-based study of successively treated cohorts from the British Columbia Cancer Agency

BACKGROUND

Primary bone lymphoma (PBL) is a distinct clinicopathological entity. Although PBL has been reviewed in several small studies, few reflect recent improvements in primary treatment.

METHODS

We used the British Columbia Cancer Agency Lymphoid Cancer Database to identify all patients with PBL (1983-2005). All were staged in a uniform manner and treated with era-specific protocols.

RESULTS

We identified 131 patients with a median age of 63 years (18-87). One third had disease in long bones and another one third had disease in the spine, of which half presented with spinal cord compression. Patients with diffuse large-cell lymphoma (DLCL) (n=103, 79%) had 5- and 10-year overall survivals (OS) of 62% and 41%, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified three prognostic groups: age<60 with International Prognostic Index (IPI) 1-3 (n=43), age>or=60 with IPI 0-3 (n=23) and age>or=60 with IPI 4-5 (n=33), with markedly different 5-year OS of 90%, 61% and 25%, respectively (P<0.0001). Neither primary site nor pathological fracture at presentation had an impact on OS. The 3-year progression-free survival in patients who received rituximab plus combination chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (CHOPR) chemotherapy was 88% compared with 52% in those who received CHOP-like chemotherapy without rituximab (P=0.005). The 10-year OS for those with advanced-stage disease who received irradiation plus chemotherapy was 25% versus 56% for those who received chemotherapy alone (P=0.025). Patients received irradiation if spinal cord compression was present or residual disease at the end of chemotherapy was thought to require it.

CONCLUSIONS

PBL is usually of DLCL type and has an improved outcome with CHOPR. Younger patients with good IPI score have a favorable prognosis.

Primary bone lymphoma: treatment results and prognostic factors with long-term follow-up of 82 patients

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, there is limited information on the preferred treatment and long-term prognosis of primary bone lymphomas (PBLs). All PBL cases treated at the study center between 1963 and 2003 were analyzed to determine patient, disease, and treatment factors that could affect outcome measured by overall survival (OS), cause-specific survival (CSS), and freedom-from-treatment failure (FFTF).

METHODS

A total of 101 patients with PBL diagnosed at the study institution were identified. Nineteen patients were excluded because they transferred their treatment or follow-up to another center. Disease control, survival, and prognostic factors were analyzed for all 82 remaining patients.

RESULTS

The median age of the patients was 48 years (range, 11-83 years). Approximately 80% presented with diffuse large-cell lymphoma (DLCL), and 81% presented with Ann Arbor Stage I or II disease. Approximately 57% were treated with combined modality therapy, 14% were treated with radiation therapy alone, and 30% were treated with chemotherapy alone. The median follow-up was 67 months (range, 2-280 months). The 5-year OS, CSS, and FFTF were 88%, 96%, and 81%, respectively. The 5-year OS for patients treated with combined modality versus single-modality therapy was 95% versus 78% (P = .013), and the 5-year FFTF for patients treated with combined modality versus single-modality therapy was 90% versus 67% (P = .025). The 5-year CSS for patients treated with combined modality versus single-modality therapy was 95% versus 83% (P = .065). Using a Cox regression for multivariate analysis, age < 40 years and use of combined modality therapy were found to be favorable prognostic factors for OS, CSS, and FFTF.

CONCLUSIONS

To the authors' knowledge, the current study is the largest series of patients with PBL treated with modern curative modalities. The data demonstrate that primary lymphoma involving the bone has an excellent prognosis. Patients with PBL treated with combined modality versus single modality therapy were found to have a superior outcome, with a significantly better survival.

Primary bone lymphoma

Primary bone lymphoma is a rare condition which represents a low percentage of both the malignant primary bone tumours and the non-Hodgkin extranodal lymphoma. This explains the lack of publications, lines of investigations, and specific diagnostic and treatment protocols. In the following article we will carry out a revision of the existing literature on this rare subject, using as argument a clinical case of left femoral location stage IE treated with CHOP chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Primary lymphomas of bone

Primary bone lymphoma is rare. The majority of cases are diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Classification, staging, and treatment are controversial. The relatively small number of cases has led to many case reports and series describing institutional experiences but precludes the use of randomized clinical trials to address the question of optimal management. This article will review clinical and radiologic presentations, diagnostic techniques, and histologic characteristics. Most important, it will present what limited information we do have regarding effective treatment options for this unusual type of lymphoma.

Primary bone lymphoma: radiographic-MR imaging correlation

Primary bone lymphoma is an uncommon malignancy that accounts for less than 5% of all primary bone tumors. The radiographic appearances of primary bone lymphoma are variable, and, because the lesion can appear near normal on plain radiographs, a second modality such as bone scintigraphy or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging should be used. Despite this variability, the presence of a solitary, permeative, metadiaphyseal lesion with a layered periosteal reaction on plain radiographs and a soft-tissue mass on MR images, especially in a patient older than 30 years, is highly suggestive of lymphoma. The case for a diagnosis of primary bone lymphoma is further strengthened if the soft-tissue mass and marrow changes are associated with surprisingly little cortical destruction. Primary bone lymphoma has a better prognosis than many other malignant bone tumors; therefore, early identification allows for appropriate treatment. MR imaging not only permits early identification but also depicts the extent of soft-tissue involvement and can be used to assess the outcome of treatment.

Primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the humerus following traumatic injury: case report

A case of primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the right humerus which occurred in a 21-year-old male patient after an impact to the right shoulder in a car accident in July 1983 is described. Seventeen years after the injury, due to a civil lawsuit, the biopsy material was revised. Immunohistochemical analysis showed CD20 and CD79a positivity on large pleomorphic cells, while small reactive lymphocytes were CD3, Bcl-2 and CD20 positive. Molecular analysis carried out with PCR revealed a monoclonal B-lymphocyte population. The diagnosis of diffuse large peripheral B cell lymphoma of the bone was confirmed. The present case concurs with the literature on primary bone lymphoma, in which the diagnostic problem, trauma-related presentation and an excellent prognosis of malignant tumour are emphasized.

Primary lymphoma of bone--survival and prognosis

BACKGROUND

Primary lymphoma of bone is a rare disease. There is yet no systematical evaluation of primary lymphoma of bone in Korea. Here we report our experience of sixteen cases with primary lymphoma of bone focusing on the survival.

METHODS

Sixteen cases, collected for 13 years, were evaluated on the clinical presentation, histologic subtype, stage and treatment outcomes of the primary bone lymphoma.

RESULTS

The most common presenting complaint was bone pain. Malignant lymphoma of bone involved a wide variety of sites, the most prevalent site of which in this study was the spine. Most of the cases were in the diffuse large B-cell category. The clinical stage of lymphoma was IEA in two cases, IIEA in three cases, IVEA in five cases and IVEB in three cases. All treated cases received systemic chemotherapy and ten cases among them were treated with combined modality therapy. Median overall survival was not reached after median follow-up period of 28 months and five-year overall survival rate was 54%.

CONCLUSION

More promising therapeutic strategies are needed for survival improvement on more accumulated cases.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma arising in bone in children and adolescents is associated with an excellent outcome: a Children's Cancer Group report

PURPOSE

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) arising in bone is a heterogeneous histologic type of NHL that includes large-cell lymphoma, lymphoblastic lymphoma, and small noncleaved-cell lymphoma. NHL arising in bone is well recognized in adults but is less well characterized and infrequent in children and adolescents.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of Children's Cancer Group (CCG) studies treating children and adolescents with NHL over a 20-year period (CCG-551, CCG-501, CCG-502, CCG-503, CCG-552, CCG-5911, and CCG-5941) and determined the response and event-free survival (EFS) rates in 31 patients with NHL arising in bone.

RESULTS

The patients ranged in age from 3 to 17 years (median, 11 years; mean, 11 years), and 64.5% were male. All 31 (100%) patients achieved complete response. For 31 patients with NHL arising in bone, the product-limit estimated 5-year EFS was 83.8% +/- 6.7%. EFS in 17 patients with localized disease (Murphy stages I and II) was 94.1% +/- 5.7%, and EFS in 14 patients with disseminated disease (Murphy stage III) was 70.7% +/- 12.4% (log-rank P =.10). EFS in 17 patients treated with chemotherapy and radiation was 70.1% +/- 11.2%, and EFS in 14 patients treated with chemotherapy without radiation was 100% (P =.03). EFS in 26 patients with histology-directed treatment (LSA2-L2 or ADCOMP for lymphoblastic, other therapy for nonlymphoblastic) was 92.2% +/- 5.3%, and in five patients with nonhistology-directed treatment it was 40.0% +/- 21.9% (P <.001).

CONCLUSION

NHL arising in bone is a heterogeneous type of NHL that makes up approximately 2.0% of NHL in children and adolescents on CCG studies. Response and survival in this young age group seem superb, with histology-directed treatment protocols without radiation in both localized and disseminated disease.

Primary bone lymphoma in 24 patients treated between 1955 and 1999

The authors present their experience in the treatment of 24 patients with primary bone lymphoma. Eighty-one patients treated between 1955 and 1999 were evaluated, and 57 were excluded because of misdiagnosis. The male to female ratio was 7:5 and the median age was 38.5 years (range, 18-69 years). Two patients had human immunodeficiency virus. Seventeen patients had intermediate-grade lymphomas (Working Formulation), nine patients had centroblastic subtype (Kiel), and 22 patients had B immunophenotype. Nine patients had combined treatment with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and nine patients had chemotherapy alone. The mean followup was 13.2 years (range, 1.5-37.3 years). Three patients had surgery, two because of subtrochanteric fractures (one patient had closed reduction and internal fixation and the other patient had resection and endoprosthesis reconstruction). The third patient presented with myelocompression at the thoracic level, and he had decompression surgery. Only one patient had radiation therapy and two patients had no treatment. There have been no local recurrences in 17 patients (70.8%). Seven patients (29.2%) died with evidence of disease within a followup of 11 months. The results of the current study showed that patients with primary bone lymphoma have a good prognosis when they are treated with chemotherapy, regardless of whether radiation therapy was given. Surgery usually is appropriate for patients with fractures.

Staging and management of localized non-Hodgkin's lymphomas: variations among experts in radiation oncology

PURPOSE

To examine the opinions of radiation oncology experts on the management of lymphomas with respect to staging procedures, treatment plan, radiation target volume, and dose prescription. Our aim was to identify the patterns of practice and areas of controversy that may need to be resolved and be amenable to prospective clinical trials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Radiation oncology experts in lymphoma management were identified from academic centers in the United States, Europe, and Canada. A sample of individuals with a publication record and/or participation in the design and execution of lymphoma clinical trials (n = 33) were mailed a questionnaire of five case scenarios. The experts were asked to specify their approaches to staging investigations, treatment plan, radiation target volume, and dose prescription for each scenario. Radiation fields were indicated by the respondents on a schematic anatomy diagram on the questionnaire. The response rate to the survey was 82% (27/33).

RESULTS

Staging of lymphomas relied on the use of imaging, because computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis was recommended in all cases, and computed tomography of the uninvolved thorax was advocated by 70% of respondents. A lymphangiogram and a gallium scan were suggested by, respectively, 26% and 25% of respondents. The overall treatment plan was uniform for the four cases of localized presentations of lymphoma. However, the details of chemotherapy and radiation target volume varied significantly. Variations were observed in recommendations regarding the number of courses of chemotherapy and the extent of radiotherapy. The survey documented significant differences in the recommended radiation therapy (RT) dose (30-50 Gy). The scenario of leptomeningeal relapse in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma documented the most diverse treatment recommendations. These varied from whole-brain radiation alone to systemic and intrathecal chemotherapy, radiation with craniospinal coverage, and high-dose chemotherapy with bone marrow transplantation.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey demonstrated a high degree of consensus regarding the overall management plan of localized lymphomas among the sampled expert radiation oncologists. However, the recommendations regarding the specifics of chemotherapy and RT remain variable. There is clearly no agreement on the most appropriate RT dose and volume. The large variation in the treatment of leptomeningeal relapse of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma suggests that the optimal treatment in this situation is poorly defined, and the clinical outcome with RT, as well as the rationale for decision making, should be examined in more detail.

Long-term results of combined modality therapy in primary bone lymphomas

PURPOSE

To report the Massachusetts General Hospital experience in the management of patients with primary bone lymphoma (PBL) treated with combined modality therapy (CMT).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Records from 37 eligible patients were reviewed. Two patients were treated with complete resection of the tumor, while 35 patients underwent radiation therapy with a median total dose of 54 Gy (range 38.35-66.5). All patients received combination chemotherapy, which contained doxorubicin in 33 cases. We compared the current data with our previous experience in patients treated with local measures only.

RESULTS

Actuarial disease-free survival (DFS) at 5 and 10 years is 78% and 73%, respectively, while overall survival (OS) is 91% and 87%, respectively. No local failures were seen. Pathologic fracture at presentation influenced DFS (p = 0.005) and OS (p = 0.017) adversely. OS was compromised in patients older than 60 years (p = 0.059) and DFS in patients with pelvic primaries (p = 0.015). CMT was associated with improved DFS (p = 0.0008) and OS p = 0.0001) compared to our historical controls. Ten patients (27%) developed complications requiring orthopedic procedures following completion of therapy at a median of 25.5 months (range 4-228).

CONCLUSION

Patients with PBL have a favorable outcome with CMT, which appears superior to radiation therapy alone. Late complications can be seen, especially in weight-bearing bones.

Osteolymphoma (primary bone lymphoma): an Australian review of 70 cases. Australasian Radiation Oncology Lymphoma Group (AROLG)

BACKGROUND

To examine prognostic factors, treatment outcomes and design future studies for Osteolymphoma (OL)--also known as primary bone lymphoma.

METHODS

Between 1979 and 1993, 70 patients with OL were treated in nine Australian centres. The effect of patient-, tumour-, and treatment-related factors on local control, distant disease-free survival and overall survival were assessed by multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Most patients (94%) received radiotherapy (RT) (median dose 40 Gy) and 56% received chemotherapy. Multifocal disease was present in 20% of patients. The five year rates of overall survival and local control were 59% and 82%. Although there was a trend towards better results with the addition of chemotherapy, on multivariate analysis, there were no factors identified which appeared to impact upon overall and disease-free survival. Among the distant recurrences, there was a high proportion in bone (33%). Six patients suffered pathological fractures after treatment.

CONCLUSION

High rates of local control were achieved by RT, but the overall survival remains relatively poor, worse than nodal lymphoma. The natural history of the disease suggests that OL may be a distinct entity, different to nodal lymphomas, so the results of clinical trials in nodal lymphoma may not be relevant to OL. Prospective studies could define the outcome of combined modality therapy and set a benchmark for testing further proposals, as well as improving our knowledge of the clinical features of OL.

Therapeutic management with adriamycin-containing chemotherapy and radiotherapy of monostotic and polyostotic primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of bone in adults

The best treatment of primary lymphoma of bone (PLB) remains undefined. We reviewed 15 patients with monostotic PLB and 8 with polyostotic PLB. Twenty of the patients were suitable for analysis. All patients but 1 received adriamycin-containing chemotherapy in association with radiation therapy. Radiotherapy for monostotic cases consisted of 40 Gy to long bones, followed by a boost to 45 Gy to bulky lesions or 40-45 Gy to whole flat bones. In cases of polyostotic PLB, bulky sites, fractured lesions, or sites with a high risk of fracture were irradiated with a median dose of 38 Gy. All patients with monostotic disease achieved complete remission (CR): 10 patients were alive and relapse-free at the time of this writing, 1 other patient was alive following a relapse, and 1 patient died while relapse-free. The survival rate for the patients in the study at the time of this writing was 92% at 50 months. Four patients with polyostotic disease achieved CR. Three of them had only two adjacent sites of disease and were treated as cases of monostotic PLB. Two of these 3 patients are alive and relapse-free. Four patients with polyostotic disease achieved PR, relapsed rapidly, and died of progressive disease. The relapse site was invariably the skeleton. The survival rate for patients with polyostotic PLB at the time of writing was 25% at 40 months. No severe late treatment-related toxicity was observed. The treatment of patients with monostotic PLB with adriamycin-containing chemotherapy and whole-bone irradiation with 40 Gy, followed by a boost to 45 Gy to bulky sites, prevented local relapse and produced a more favorable outcome than the use of radiotherapy (RT) alone. Patients with multiple adjacent lesions that can be included within a single radiation field with acceptable toxicity should be treated as cases of monostotic PLB.

Treatment of multifocal lymphoma of bone with intensified ProMACE-CytaBOM chemotherapy and involved field radiotherapy

Primary bone involvement is an unusual extranodal presentation of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). The optimal treatment for this entity has not been determined. While solitary bone lymphomas can be eradicated with local radiation in 50% of patients, distant relapses occur frequently, and the treatment of patients with multifocal osseous disease, or those presenting with associated soft tissue invasion or adenopathy is even less satisfactory. Over a 4-year period, nine patients with multifocal bone lymphoma were treated with intensified versions of the ProMACE-CytaBOM regimen and involved-field radiation. Seven patients had diffuse large cell histology and two patients had diffuse mixed type. Seven patients survived event-free at a median follow-up of 2.3 years (range .5-3.5). In most survivors, there was little or no change in the abnormal radiographic bone findings despite the clinical response to therapy. In one patient, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) established that bone infarction rather than relapse of lymphoma was the cause of a new lytic bone lesion that developed during treatment.

Localized primary malignant lymphoma of bone

PURPOSE

A single institution's experience with the treatment of localized primary malignant lymphoma of bone (PLB) was analyzed to identify major prognostic factors, toxicity, and optimal treatment for this rare malignancy.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A retrospective analysis of 45 previously untreated patients with Ann Arbor stage IE and IIE PLB from 1967 to 1992 was undertaken. All histopathologic material was reviewed. Irradiated patients received at least 40 Gy. Systemic chemotherapy was generally doxorubicin based. Overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS), and disease-specific survival (DSS) were calculated actuarially.

RESULTS

Histologically, there were 41 diffuse large cell, 2 diffuse mixed cell, 1 lymphocytic, and 1 lymphoblastic lymphomas. International Index scores were assessed on 43 patients. Thirty-six patients were treated with chemotherapy and radiation (CMT), five patients were treated with radiation only, and four patients were treated with chemotherapy only. Univariate analysis revealed significantly improved 5-year OS for those patients who had International Index scores of 0 vs. scores of 1 or 2 (85 vs. 53%, respectively, p = 0.004). Analysis failed to demonstrate a difference in OS, PFS, or DSS when comparing radiotherapy alone versus CMT, stage IE vs. stage IIE, or axial skeleton involvement vs. extremities.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of patients with PLB is relatively favorable in the era of CMT. Doses of radiation in the range of 46 Gy provide optimal local control with an acceptable rate of complications. The International Index is a valid prognostic tool for PLB.

Primary bone lymphoma (osteolymphoma)

Seventeen patients with primary lymphoma of bone are reviewed. In 15 patients treated with radical radiotherapy, local progression or recurrence occurred in four. The results support the use of radiotherapy alone, using doses of 45-50 Gy. Although small numbers prevent firm conclusions, the inclusion of the whole bone or regional nodes in the irradiated volume did not appear to improve results. Eight patients received systemic chemotherapy with no apparent improvement in rates of relapse. Two patients suffered pathological fractures after radiotherapy in the absence of recurrence at the fracture site; however, osteomyelitis, older age, Paget's disease, high-dose prednisolone and whole-bone radiotherapy may have added to the risk of fracture. Because of the many complex names and selection criteria applied to this condition, literature searching and comparison between studies was difficult. The simple term osteolymphoma is proposed, consistent with other primary bone conditions.